Crawley builder takes on boxing challenge for mental health

Anthony Dinneen, 29, from Crawley, took part in an Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) match at K2 Crawley earlier this year to raise funds and awareness for the Mental Health Foundation, Amputation Foundation, Cancer Research UK and Diabetes UK.

Mr Dinneen’s motivation came from deeply personal experiences, including the amputation of his big toe in 2019 following a workplace accident, and the loss of his father to suicide in 2016.

He said: "When I was 21, I was in an accident at work that chopped off one of my big toes.

"This led to me being out of work for five years, and after multiple complications, infections and operations, I eventually had to have it amputated.

"I’ve struggled with basic things like balance ever since, which took a real toll on my confidence."

Despite these challenges, he was determined to take on the challenge.

He said: "I knew entering Ultra White Collar Boxing was going to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but am so proud to have proved to myself what I am capable of."

Mr Dinneen used the opportunity to raise awareness about mental health.

He said: "Ten years ago I also sadly lost my dad. He was hiding his pain from us, which is so common for many other suicide cases.

"The loss of my dad impacted every one of my family members. I hope that by raising awareness for mental health I can encourage more people to reach out for help, and get support."

He took part in eight weeks of training at Lumpini Fight Academy, led by coach John Jarvis.

Mr Dinneen faced 22-year-old Tyler Reed in a closely contested match and said the experience helped him quit smoking and build confidence.

Encouraged by the experience, he plans to take part in another UWCB event in July.

He has already exceeded the minimum £50 fundraising target set for participants.

Ultra Events has raised a total of £43.5 million for charity to date.